Butterfly valves were first used in the late 18th century by James Watt. since then, they have undergone development and can now withstand extreme temperatures. A butterfly valve’s function is similar to a ball valve. It belongs to the family of quarter-turn valves. It isolates and regulates the flow of liquid or gasses in the process.
A butterfly valve has a disc that connects with the rod. The disc changes position when the valve is opened or closed.
Principle of Operation
The working of a butterfly valve is similar to a ball valve. The butterfly refers to the metal disc. The rod goes through the disc (located in the pipe’s center) to connect to an actuator. The actuator is present outside the valve. The actuator is rotated to turn the disc parallel or perpendicular. A good butterfly valve supplier supplies all types of butterfly valves that can be used in different processes and systems.
Types of Butterfly Valves
There are three main types of butterfly valves as per the difference in design.
Zero-Offset Butterfly Valve
Also known as a concentric and rubber-seated butterfly valve, this is the most basic type of butterfly valve. The usage of a rubber seat makes it most resilient as well. In this type, the stem passes through the center of the disc. It can withstand up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit heat.
Double-Offset Butterfly Valve
As the name suggests, offset happens in two places in this type of valve; at the body seal line and the bore. The stem passes from behind the disk. The double offset increases the durability of the seal.
Triple-Offset Butterfly Valve
A triple-offset butterfly valve works best for a high-pressure system. It also has a heat tolerance at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. The offset happens in three places, making it long-lasting.
Uses of Butterfly Valves
- Butterfly valves are the most often used valves for regulating fluid flow. The actuators work with the valve’s stem and disc to control the flow.
- Butterfly valves are also utilized to separate the flow of fluids because of their quarter-turn rotation and lightweight construction. However, when employing these valves for flow isolation, they can influence the system performance detrimentally.
- Butterfly valves are also used to prevent backflow. It is critical in the food processing business to avoid backflow to preserve hygiene.
- Because of their design, butterfly valves work well in systems with limited space. They can readily fit into small areas and work efficiently.
- Butterfly valves can manage massive fluid flows, including slurries, when used for throttling. They are not deemed suitable for precision throttling.
Advantages
Butterfly valves have many advantages over other types of valves.
- Butterfly valves are the most preferred type of valves for large-scale projects. They are highly economical and easy to manufacture.
- The design of butterfly valves makes them easy to maintain and repair.
- They are lightweight and can function in small spaces as well. In processes where space is limited, butterfly valves are used.
- They are available in multiple sizes including small sizes as well.
- Butterfly valves work the best in low-pressure systems.
- The material used for sealing surfaces is rubber or plastic which makes the sealing good.
- They can handle slurries with a huge amount of suspended solids.
- They require less structural assistance than ball valves.
Disadvantages
Despite their many advantages, butterfly valves also have some disadvantages.
- As compared to ball valves or other types of valves, butterfly valves have poor sealing performance.
- The ability to handle slurries is limited.
- In throttling applications, butterfly valves function well only in low-pressure drop systems.
Applications
Butterfly valves have many applications. They are used in slurry and corrosive services, cooling and heating water applications, and high-temperature steam and water services. For example- they can also be used in systems in seawater which have a floating boat dock for sale.
Several processes rely on the unique mechanism of butterfly valves. Some of them are-
Food Processing– Food processing businesses need a high level of cleanliness. Butterfly valves are suitable for use in food production activities. Butterfly valves made of stainless steel are widely used since they are the most hygienic and corrosion-resistant metal available.
Chemical Industry– Lined butterfly valves are utilized in the chemical industry. They regulate fluid flow and can withstand the acids commonly used in industry. Safety is an important aspect of the chemical industry. You can easily find a China jacket manufacturer that manufactures jackets that can be used while working in dangerous environments.
Refineries– High-performance butterfly valves are used in several refineries. Because of its capacity to survive harsh circumstances, a triple offset butterfly valve is generally used.
Conclusion
With the continuous advancement, usage of butterfly valves has increased. Their small size and lightweight design make them suitable for an endless number of processes. They come in various sizes, fittings, and types.
